 The slowness of the Chinese economy and retail as well as a similar situation in Hong Kong itself was offset by the attractive range of fashion accessories on show at the October 2015 Fashion Access trade show.Exhibitors appear to have gone that extra mile when displaying their new designs and capabilities either as OEM´s or brands looking for suitable buyers.
With trading conditions tougher than they had been for several years since the 2008-2009 financial crises there were some really spectacular products on show to attract wholesalers and distributors looking for that extra special touch so as to populate their shelves with products that would draw in consumers to their stores. Watch the short video above which clearly illustrates the class and the “bling” on show at Fashion Access covering shoes, bags, gloves, small leather goods, travelware, garments and complementary accessories such as hats and sunglasses. With the Spring-Summer 2016 collections in evidence the event once again highlighted many different designs and styles of bags, of all shapes and sizes followed by a wide range of footwear, especially for ladies, as this is the main growth sector of Fashion Access. Small leather goods and fashion accessories, both vital for the complete head-to-toe look complemented the offer. Quality buyers are characteristic of Fashion Access and many come to develop a vision of upcoming trends and to see the dynamics of the daily fashion shows that take place. With exhibitors from 21 countries displaying their latest creations, buyers had a wide range of products to choose from. Fashion Access also offered a complete fashion experience not only with its regular fashion shows but also with networking opportunities at the Happy Hour in the Fashion Lounge. Best of APLF Awards Winners The Best of APLF Awards (BOAA) was held once again to celebrate the design excellence of exhibits and produced four category winners:  Lifestyle Collection
Lamac HK Ltd, Hong Kong
For its IXEX Premium Balance line of casual and sporty shoes, that literally puts a spring to your step! Its unique spring heel adjusts elasticity based on individual body weight, protecting the joints and adjusting the balance of the body.  Fashion Accessories Collection
Ma’s Ceramic Art Collection, Korea
Artistry and craftsmanship are evident in this elegant fashion accessories collection that makes creative use of ceramics in clutches, necklaces, and other fashion jewelry.
 Footwear Collection
Henrich & Cia Ltd, Brazil
The company’s Carrana brand of ladies’ footwear is best described as sophisticated and preciously simple, with elegant lines and glamorous silhouettes that are very Grace Kelly-esque in style.
 Bag & Leathergoods Collection
Atelier Aknas, Thailand
Their technical superiority in the use of stingray and exotic leather for its coherent collection of bags and small leathergoods that combine French style with Oriental materials and craftsmanship. What did participants say? With the Christmas buying season virtually upon the retail sector stores will have to stock up in the expectation that repressed demand of this year will soon be compensated by a pick-up in business in 2016.
It is more a question of business confidence around the globe and attractive ranges of products in the fashion sector that are fun and original may help dispel what the media talks about as “doom and gloom”.
Fashion Access reflected the tone of the market and mood of the buyers who came away from the fair feeling much better for the excellent range of imaginative and fine designs on show.
It is worth noting some quotes and observations of the participants at the show:
Michael Antonio Footwear Group, USA
“Very good quality buyers and a fair worth participating at. A buyer met at last March fair has just placed order and we must understand it takes time to confirm new orders.” H.J. De. Rooy, Amsterdam
“There are lots of possibilities at the fair! I met buyers from Japan and India. The Asian market appreciates European design. There are lots of serious buyers at the fair and they are willing to listen to your story and learn about your brand”
“Fashion Access has a good mix of buyers who are looking for manufacturers and brands.” Thomas Wong, Sales Director, BEME International, Hong Kong
“I think online lacks the interaction; it is a must to meet face-to-face.” Manufacturers and buyers need to meet face-to-face to really understand their business needs and Fashion Access fulfills this basic business requirement.
Don’t miss next year’s Fashion Access that runs from 30 March to 1 April in Hong Kong where you will be able to find the brands and OEM / ODM manufacturing services your company requires. For more information, please visit fashionaccess.aplf.com. Hong Kong
(03/11/2015) |
